The “next” Stagefright is here putting more than a billion Android smartphones and tablets at risk of being compromised by new bugs if their owners even just preview video or audio files that have been specially crafted to exploit the vulnerability

This has arrived before the original Stagefright has been patched on Android devices – here is a link to my original Stagefright post

Security issues on Android are a problem. “Depending on the type, they can let attackers run programs of their own choosing on a computing device, gain access to sensitive documents, monitor network traffic, listen to keyboard activity, turn on a webcam or turn a computing device into a tool that launches attacks on other devices.”

Will This Be Patched ?

Google, tries to set a good example by issuing security updates to its Nexus family of devices.

However compared to Apple’s iOS operating system, which powers its iPhones and iPads, the Android market is more vulnerable to security holes , due to the variety of makers and the versions of Android in the market.

Android phones get software updates slowly and in some cases , never. As Android phone makers such as Samsung, Huawei, Sony and LG, are all responsible for their own software updates.

Both Google and many smartphone makers have committed to monthly security updates – just like Microsoft.

What Can You Do ?

Do not go to sites on your phone offering video and audio files that appear to be from less than reputable sites

Check if you have an update on your phone – it’s in the settings

If your Android phone is a few years old you may want to consider a new phone as you may never get an update

Are You Vulnerable ?

There is an app called Stagefright detector from Zimperium that will tell you whether your device is vulnerable